Donegal’s 12,408 asthma sufferers eligible for a free flu vaccine are being urged to act early and get protected ahead of winter.

The Asthma Society of Ireland is today calling on the people in Donegal who have asthma, and the 17,511 people who have Coronary Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), to speak to their GP or pharmacist about receiving the flu vaccination.

“Contracting the virus is in no way a pleasant experience. Headaches, high fever, chills, coughing and aching body are just a few of the many debilitating symptoms.

“In some cases, the flu can lead to death. Every year, between 200 and 500 people die as a result of the flu,” he added.

“People with asthma need to be extra cautious with the flu virus as it causes swelling and narrowing of the airways in the lungs, along with excess mucus and these three factors can trigger an asthma attack, which in some cases, can be fatal.

“The southern hemisphere has just come out of a very difficult flu season and this usually indicates that it will hit us hard this winter too.

“So, this year, it is even more important that people with asthma and other respiratory conditions receive the flu jab, as it could save their lives.”

People with long-term illnesses like asthma and COPD are at higher risk of the flu, which is potentially fatal.

Sarah O’Connor, CEO of the Asthma Society, said: “It is really important that people with asthma or COPD and their friends, family and co-workers, make every effort to avoid contracting the highly contagious flu virus.

“One person now dies every six days from asthma. To help keep the flu at bay, we’ve compiled a list of top tips on how to avoid contracting the virus, and what to do if you do contract the virus.”

Call the Asthma Society’s free Asthma and COPD Adviceline on 1800 44 54 64 to speak to an respiratory specialist nurse to ensure you are properly managing your condition and are best prepared for flu season

Cover your mouth when sneezing using a tissue – this tissue should be binned afterwards

Wash your hands frequently with hot soapy water to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading the flu virus

Get plenty of sleep and eat healthily – this can help boost your immunity and decrease the risks of contracting a flu

If you suspect someone has a cold or the flu, keep your distance where possible

Try to get into the habit of not touching your face as this is often how the flu is spread

Regularly clean hard surfaces such as your phone, keyboard and door handles as the flu virus can live on these surfaces for up to 24 hours

If you catch the flu, you should:

Schedule an appointment with your doctor straight away

Remember to use your preventative inhaler every day, which will help control inflammation in your lungs – this will make you less likely to have an asthma attack

Always carry your reliever inhaler(usually blue) with you wherever you go in case of emergencies

Rest as much as possible – the flu can be extremely tiring and you will need all your energy to fight it

Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water

Stay home from work/school when you experience flu symptoms, to rest and also to avoid spreading the virus

For anyone looking for any more information on their asthma and/or COPD and the flu/pneumococcal vaccine, the Asthma Society has a team of respiratory specialist nurses available on 1800 44 54 64 who will happily answer their queries.

Donegal asthma sufferers urged to take advantage of free flu vaccine was last modified: October 24th, 2019 by Shaun Keenan

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